CMV and ToMV (mosaic viruses)

Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV)

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV)

• It belongs to the Virgaviridae family and is closely related to the tobacco mosaic virus (TMV).
• Host: ToMV hosts include tomato, tobacco, peppers, and certain ornamental plants.
• Spread: Through infected seeds, saplings, agricultural tools and often, through the hands of nursery workers.

• It belongs to the genus Cucumovirus (family Bromoviridae).
• Host: Cucumber, melon, eggplant, tomato, carrot, lettuce, celery, cucurbits (members of the gourd family, including squash, pumpkin, zucchini, some gourds, etc.), and some ornamentals.
• CMV was identified in cucumber in 1934, which gave the virus its name.
• Spread: by aphids (sap-sucking insects), human touch (extremely low chances).

Impact: Both viruses can cause almost 100 per cent crop loss unless properly treated on time.